The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed criticism over movement restrictions imposed ahead of the Area Council elections, saying the final results will determine political influence in the nation’s capital.
Speaking after monitoring the polls in Abuja on Saturday, Wike responded to comments attributed to FCT senator Ireti Kingibe, who criticised the directive restricting movement from 8 p.m. on Friday, the eve of the election.
The minister clarified that the restriction was not a personal decision but was approved by the President as part of measures to ensure a peaceful exercise. He expressed disappointment that his earlier remarks were challenged without proper review.
“I don’t want to join issues. At the end of the election, when the results come out, then we will know who is who,” Wike said.
Assessing the polls, he noted that turnout in the city centre was typically low but described participation in several satellite towns as impressive. He attributed lower urban turnout to the nature of off-cycle elections while stressing that the absence of violence signalled success.
Wike also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission for the professionalism of its personnel and praised security agencies, saying no incidents of violence were reported and the process remained peaceful.
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